PEARL DISTRICT. At Andina, their tagline is, "A Taste of Peru in the Pearl," underscoring the fact that the chef focuses on creating only the best Peruvian cuisine at this Pearl District darling. Fresh ingredients, innovative use of spices, and a pairing of home cooking and haute cuisine has diners hooked upon first bite. The restaurant offers two dining spaces, a formal dining room, and a more casual "Bar Mestizo" that features a raw bar and a host of tempting cocktails created by expert bartenders. The bar also offers live music nightly. Warm earth tones punctuated by subtle shades of red and yellow are accented by gleaming hardwoods and dark wood furniture, lending a casual, yet sleek look to the dining room.

When you visit Chez Jose East, bring the kids ­ they'll love the bottomless chips and salsa and the funky, slightly morbid decor. Terrific margaritas are a hit with adults, and there's food to please every palate. Along with standard Mexican dishes, you can also get designer fare. Among the options are zesty lime-chicken enchiladas and squash enchiladas dressed with peanut sauce. Grilled shrimp and a luscious mole sauce are also reasons to head over. Just make sure you arrive early, since they accept reservations only for groups.

The appearance isn't as upscale as some places you'll go, but El Palenque is well able to stand on its food alone. The restaurant features good Mexican fare, but it's also frequented for its Salvadoran cuisine, which is similar but a welcome change of pace. The most recognizable dish is the pupusa, a corn tortilla stuffed with meat and cheese, then fried. Guacamole is terrific, not exactly as you'd expect, and fried plantains add a sweet note to the meal. Weekends often bring live music and add extra flavor to the culinary event.

Esparza's Tex-Mex Cafe is a fun, festive and eccentric eatery that serves some of the most intriguing enchiladas and tamales you'll ever taste. As you sit beneath an army of ceiling-dwelling marionettes, you'll dig into lamb enchiladas (which win particularly high praise) and other unusual offerings, such as ostrich, alligator, buffalo and salmon. If you're adventurous, you may even choose to sample the calf brain tacos. If not, just be relieved that there's chicken and beef. Servings are substantial, margaritas are terrific, and there's a great selection of tequilas as well. Plus, the jukebox plays great classic tunes. Casual dress. Reservations not accepted.

Featuring fresh, organic ingredients and catering to vegetarian and vegan diners (free-range chicken is also an option), Laughing Planet offers wholesome burritos, quesadillas, and salads with an earth-friendly bent. Prices are friendly too, as is service, and families are welcome since there are several meal options for the under-12 population.